George Hussey, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pathology. Prior to joining the Department of Pathology, he was a Research Assistant Professor, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Surgery.  He was also a McGowan Institute Postdoctoral Associate in the laboratory of Stephen Badylak, DVM, PhD, MD, and a Postdoctoral Fellow in the laboratory of Philip Howe, PhD, Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology.

Dr. Hussey’s research interests focus upon the discovery, development, and clinical translation of extracellular matrix (ECM)-based materials for functional tissue reconstruction. These interests also extend into an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of ECM-induced constructive remodeling, specifically in examining the remodeling response and the effect of matrix components on immune modulation toward a constructive, anti-inflammatory phenotype, with the broad goal of identifying molecular targets to bias these responses. Cell:Matrix interactions, including the role of matrix bound nanovesicles (MBV), constitutive phospholipids and incorporated (extracellular) RNA on matrix biology and the host tissue response, are prime targets of his investigations. With a more thorough understanding of matrix composition, as well as the interplay between fibrillar and soluble components within matrix, Dr. Hussey and his team will be able to apply a more rational approach toward the design of transformative new regenerative medicine technologies.

Dr. Hussey, a McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine affiliated faculty member, recently spoke with Regenerative Medicine Today host John Murphy, McGowan Institute Executive Director, about

  • tissue engineering and the interplay of substrates which promote growth
  • new formulations for ECM, i.e., hydrogels, and the clinical translation of ECM-based materials for functional tissue reconstruction
  • ECM Therapeutics, local start-up company

Listen to their conversation here.